The other day, a client asked me a question that I hear all the time:
“Does drinking orange juice actually help when I’m sick?”
It’s such a common belief that orange juice is the ultimate cold remedy.
I understand why people think that—it’s marketed as being ‘loaded’ with vitamin C, it’s comforting, and it’s practically a tradition to sip on when you’re under the weather.
In fact, the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) alone spent approximately $14.7 million in the 2022–23 fiscal year promoting Florida orange juice.
That’s a lot of money to keep OJ’s reputation alive!
But here’s the truth: while orange juice might seem like the perfect immune booster, it could actually be making things worse.
The Orange Juice Myth
It’s time to expose the biggest myth in the history of sniffles and sore throats…
The idea that drinking orange juice is the ultimate cure for the common cold.
I know…this is a shocker and I never like being the bearer of bad news, but your trusty glass of OJ isn’t the cold and flu fighting superhero it’s cracked up to be.
In fact, it might just be the villain sabotaging your valiant attempts to kick that cold to the curb.
Why Orange Juice Falls Short
Here’s the bitter truth about this so-called “cold remedy”:
It’s not the immune booster you’ve been led to believe. In fact, what’s hiding in that seemingly innocent glass of orange juice might actually make your recovery harder.
Let’s break it down.
First of all, let’s talk about the sugar situation. An 8-ounce glass of OJ comes packed with a whopping 20-24 grams of the sweet stuff.
That’s like consuming a massive dose of pure sugar when your body is already working overtime to fight off an infection.
Not exactly the immune system support you need right now.
And it doesn’t stop there. Most of the vitamin C in your average carton of OJ is eliminated during the pasteurization process, leaving you with far fewer benefits than you’d expect.
On top of that, orange juice is pretty acidic.
We’re talking a pH level between 2.8 and 4.0—highly acidic for an already raw and inflamed throat.
No wonder it feels worse instead of better after a sip!
But it’s not just your throat that suffers.
The acidity in orange juice can also trigger acid reflux, irritate your stomach, and even increase mucus production—making congestion even harder to deal with.
Suddenly that “soothing” glass of orange juice doesn’t seem so comforting after all.
So what’s a desperate, sniffling, coughing human to do? Ditch the OJ and embrace REAL remedies that actually support your body’s germ-fighting efforts:
Hydrate like a boss with plain old water or herbal tea
Sip on soothing broth to replace those lost electrolytes
Cozy up with a steaming mug of green tea for an antioxidant infusion
Swirl some raw honey and lemon into warm water to tame that angry throat
But if you’re looking for an even more effective way to support your immune system and help speed up your recovery, consider this powerful option…
How an Immune Support IV Drip Can Be Your Best Friend When You’re Under the Weather
Here are 5 ways an IV drip can help your immune system when it’s working overtime:
Hydration Made Easy Staying hydrated is key when you’re sick, but it’s not always easy to drink enough water when you’re feeling under the weather. An IV drip provides hydration directly to your cells, which can help your body stay balanced while it’s doing the hard work of healing.
Efficient Delivery of Vitamin C Direct-to-bloodstream vitamin C delivery at levels impossible to achieve through oral supplements.
This means your body can absorb a much higher dose—far beyond what’s possible through food or supplements—without the risk of upsetting your stomach.
This direct approach provides your immune system with the extra support it needs to tackle whatever’s bringing you down.
A Blend of Immune-Supporting Nutrients Many IV formulas include zinc, magnesium, and other nutrients known to support immune health. Together, these nutrients can complement your body’s natural defenses.
Support for Faster Recovery While everyone’s recovery timeline is unique, IV therapy is designed to give your body additional resources that may help ease symptoms and get you back to feeling more like yourself.
Tailored to Your Needs Not all colds are the same, and neither are you. At Higher Health, the Immune Support IV drip is customized to include the nutrients your body may benefit from most, based on your unique needs.
When it comes to cold remedies, finding what truly supports your body can make all the difference.
The truth is, orange juice is nothing but a phony in the world of cold remedies. Don’t let this imposter sabotage your recovery with its acidity and sky-high sugar content.
Stick to the tried-and-true methods, and show that cold who’s boss!
Stay Immune Strong,
Dr Tara and the HH Team
P.S. Want to know what’s even better than using an IV to bounce back from a cold? Staying ahead of it in the first place. IV therapy is a powerful way to support your immune health so you can keep feeling your best—even during cold and flu season.
Not too long ago, one of our clients found herself in a situation that might sound familiar. She’d been struggling for months with constant fatigue, mood swings, and just that deep-down feeling that something wasn’t right. Despite countless visits to the doctor and different medications, nothing seemed to help. She felt lost, frustrated, and desperate for a real solution.
Determined to get to the bottom of things, she decided to look beyond conventional medical care. That’s when she turned to naturopathic medicine for a more holistic approach.
After a thorough consultation with her ND, she finally felt hopeful again. For the first time in ages, she had a plan that tackled her health from all angles: hormone balance, vitamins and minerals, inflammation, and even blood sugar. It was a mix of nutrition, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies, all tailored just for her.
But then, something unexpected happened.
She shared the new plan with her MD, hoping they could work together on it. Instead, her doctor dismissed the whole idea, questioning the safety and effectiveness of naturopathic care. He insisted she stick strictly to the medications he prescribed (which weren’t really helping, in her opinion) and warned her about “unproven treatments.”
She walked out of that appointment feeling deflated, doubting her instincts, and torn between two types of care she thought could both help.
Unfortunately, this story isn’t unique. Many women face similar pushback when they try to combine conventional medical care with a more holistic approach. If you’ve encountered this, you’re not alone. So many others are just trying to make informed choices about their health and find care that actually looks at the whole picture.
So, how do we overcome these challenges and take control of our health? It starts with knowing the strategies that can make a real difference.
The Reality of Healthcare Today
It’s 2024, and you’d think by now that different types of healthcare—whether conventional or naturopathic—would work seamlessly together for the best results. But often, that’s just not the case. Even with more evidence supporting integrative healthcare, combining conventional medicine with complementary therapies can feel like an uphill battle.
In my experience, one of the biggest obstacles isn’t just knowing what to do, but navigating a system that doesn’t always make it easy. Ideally, you’d have an MD who fully supports a plan that covers every aspect of your well-being, but that’s not always how it works.
Many of our clients want to blend the best of both worlds—conventional and holistic medicine—but they’re met with resistance, uncertainty, or even outright dismissal. Let’s break down some of the common challenges women face and explore what you can do to navigate these obstacles and advocate for the care you deserve.
Common Challenges
Lack of Integration There’s a real gap between conventional medicine and complementary therapies. Many healthcare providers hesitate to embrace a holistic approach, even though research is starting to back it up. This divide leaves you feeling like you have to “choose sides” instead of benefiting from a full-circle approach.
Feeling Dismissed It’s your health, and you deserve to take an active role in it. When you’re informed and engaged, you often get better results. But some doctors might brush off your input, making it hard to truly partner in your care.
Gender Bias Women’s health concerns, especially when it comes to hormones, are sometimes minimized. How many times have you heard, “It’s just part of getting older” or “We don’t need to test your hormones; we know they’re low”? It’s frustrating and can feel like an uphill battle to get the support you need.
Healthcare Constraints Many MDs, especially those under OHIP, face strict limitations. They may not have the time or resources to dive deep into holistic care, but that shouldn’t stop them from supporting you in seeking more comprehensive health solutions.
Shortage of Family Doctors In Ontario, finding a new family doctor isn’t exactly easy. If you’re unhappy with your care, switching doctors can feel almost impossible. It’s no wonder so many women feel stuck, even when their needs aren’t being met.
Strategies for Navigating Your Healthcare Journey
Now, let’s focus on what you can do to take charge of your health. Here are some tips to help you navigate the healthcare system more effectively and advocate for the care you deserve:
Come Prepared Before your appointments, jot down your symptoms, concerns, and questions. Be specific about how your health is impacting your daily life. Instead of saying, “I’m tired,” try, “I’m experiencing fatigue that makes it hard to get through my workday.” The more detailed you are, the harder it is for your concerns to be brushed off.
Bring a Buddy Having a trusted friend or family member at your appointment can be a game-changer. They can help take notes, ask questions, and make sure your concerns are heard. When you’re focused on the discussion, it’s easy to overlook important details, so having an extra set of ears can make a big difference.
Speak Up If something doesn’t add up, or you’re not comfortable with a diagnosis, say so. Asking for more information not only empowers you but also shows your healthcare provider that you’re actively involved in your care. Remember, there are no silly questions when it comes to your health.
Explore Your Options If your primary care provider isn’t addressing your concerns, don’t hesitate to seek other perspectives. Ask for referrals to specialists, and if needed, get a second opinion. It’s perfectly okay to explore multiple options to ensure you’re getting the most well-rounded care possible. The right provider will respect your need for comprehensive answers and support.
Keep a Health Journal Documenting your symptoms, treatments, and interactions with healthcare providers can be a game-changer. Always ask for copies of your bloodwork and keep a record of your progress. Your health journal can be a valuable resource when talking to different doctors.
Talk About Your Integrated Approach When discussing complementary therapies with your MD, frame it as an addition, not a replacement, for conventional care. Emphasize that you’re committed to a comprehensive strategy to achieve the best results. This can open the door for more collaborative discussions.
Build a Support Network Connect with other women who are navigating similar healthcare challenges. Whether it’s through online forums, support groups, or friends, sharing experiences and resources can help you feel less isolated. You might even learn new strategies for advocating for your health and finding the right care.
Know Your Rights Familiarize yourself with the Ontario Patients’ Bill of Rights. Knowing what you’re entitled to can boost your confidence when advocating for yourself.
The Power of Self-Advocacy
In a perfect world, all healthcare providers would work together seamlessly to give you the best care possible. But until that day comes, it’s up to you to take charge of your health. Self-advocacy doesn’t mean being confrontational; it’s about being informed, prepared, and proactive in making decisions about your well-being.
You know your body better than anyone else. While doctors bring their expertise, your experiences are just as crucial. Don’t hesitate to speak up, ask questions, and pursue the care you need. Every time you stand up for your health, you’re not just making a change for yourself—you’re setting an example for others. You’re showing that every woman deserves a healthcare journey that truly listens and respects her needs.
Moving Forward
Navigating the healthcare system can be frustrating, but remember: change takes time. Every informed, engaged patient helps push toward a more integrated, patient-centered model of care.
If you’re facing challenges in your healthcare journey, know that you’re not alone. By staying informed, being prepared, and advocating for yourself, you take an active role in shaping your health experience. Your well-being is your most valuable asset, and taking control of your healthcare journey is the best investment you can make in yourself—and in the future of healthcare.
Remember, the goal isn’t to replace conventional medicine but to complement it with approaches that address lifestyle factors and support your overall health.
We’re here to walk this path with you, offering guidance, support, and care that sees you as the whole person you are. Never hesitate to reach out—your health journey deserves nothing less than our full support.
The back-to-school season is upon us. Whether you’re a parent juggling a hectic family schedule, a student getting back into study mode, or someone trying to adjust to the seasonal change, fall can be one of the busiest times of the year. Unfortunately, it can also be a time when our energy tanks run low and our immune systems get tested.
With the demands of new routines, shorter days, and cooler weather, it’s no surprise that we often feel rundown during this time. And let’s not forget how the season tends to bring along its companions: colds and flu. But there’s a way to combat the fatigue and stay ahead of seasonal illnesses—and that’s where IV therapy for immune health comes in.
IV therapy is a fast, effective way to bolster your immune system, increase your energy, and keep you feeling your best as you head into the fall season.
In this article, we’ll explore how IV therapy works, why it’s perfect for fall, and how it can be your secret side kick during this busy back-to-school season.
Why Fall Can Be Tough on Your Health
As much as we love the changing leaves and the crisp autumn air, fall can be hard on the body. Here’s why:
1. Seasonal Changes
As we transition from the warmth of summer to the chill of fall, our bodies go through adjustments. The shorter days mean less sunlight, which can lead to lower vitamin D levels, affecting your mood and immune resilience. On top of that, the temperature drop can make it easier to catch seasonal colds.
2. Increased Exposure to Germs
The start of the school year also means that kids are back in classrooms, adults are back in offices, and people are spending more time indoors. This environment becomes a breeding ground for germs and viruses. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or parent, you’re likely to be exposed to more bugs than usual, which can lead to getting sick more often.
3. Stress and Fatigue
Fall isn’t just about pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters—it’s also a time when stress tends to ramp up. Parents are adjusting to their kids’ new schedules, students are navigating coursework, and many people feel the pressure of balancing their work, family, and personal lives. Stress weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.
4. Nutritional Deficits
In the fall, we often start to crave comfort foods that aren’t always the healthiest. While pumpkin pies and warm casseroles are delicious, they may not provide the nutrients your body needs to stay strong and healthy. This can leave you vulnerable to fatigue and illness.
What is IV Therapy and How It Works
If you’ve never tried IV therapy, you might be wondering what all the buzz is about. IV therapy is a treatment where vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids and fluids are delivered directly into your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) drip. Unlike taking vitamins orally, which must pass through your digestive system, IV therapy allows for 100% absorption of these essential nutrients direct into your bloodstream, avoiding digestive limitations. That means your body can quickly and effectively receive a much higher dose of key cellular nutrients to benefit your health.
Each IV therapy session can be customized based on your individual needs. For instance, during the fall, you might want a drip that focuses on immunity-boosting vitamins like vitamin C, zinc, NAC and glutathione. Or, if you’re feeling extra tired, you might opt for one that includes increased B vitamins and magnesium for a natural energy boost. Amino acids (the building blocks of protein) are an integral part of our immune function as well.
The Key Benefits of IV Therapy for Immune Health In the Fall
So, why is IV therapy particularly useful during the fall back-to-school season? Let’s break it down:
1. Immune System Support
Fall is prime cold and flu season, and this year is no exception. Whether you’re a teacher surrounded by dozens of kids all day or a parent trying to stay healthy while managing a busy household, IV therapy can give your immune system the boost it needs.
Key nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, NAC and glutathione are known for their immune-boosting properties. These vitamins work together to strengthen your body’s defenses and can help you fight off those seasonal colds before they even take hold.
For example, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to support your immune cells, while zinc plays a critical role in helping your body fight infections. Both NAC and glutathione work to quench free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and regulate inflammation, creating a more balanced and robust immune response.
Getting these nutrients directly into your bloodstream means they can go to work right away, which is exactly what your immune system needs during this time of year.
2. Increased Energy and Stress Management
If you’re feeling drained and tired after long school drop-offs, endless meetings, or studying late into the night, you’re not alone. The back-to-school season is demanding, and many people feel their energy levels plummet during this time.
Fortunately, IV therapy can help. A B-vitamin complex is one of the key ingredients in many IV drips that help support energy production. B vitamins play a crucial role in converting the food you eat into energy, and they’re also known for reducing stress and improving mood. Magnesium, another popular IV ingredient, helps calm the nervous system and reduces feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
Imagine being able to power through your day with sustained energy—without reaching for another cup of coffee. That’s what IV therapy can do for you!
3. Hydration
As the weather cools down, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. We tend to feel less thirsty, and before we know it, we’re dehydrated. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and even impact your immune system.
IV therapy offers a fast way to rehydrate your body, especially if you’re someone who struggles to drink enough water throughout the day. The fluids delivered through IV therapy can help restore your hydration levels, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Plus, proper hydration is essential for helping your body fight off infections, recover from illnesses, and maintain overall health.
Who Should Consider IV Therapy for Immune Health in the Fall?
IV therapy isn’t just for people who are already feeling sick or tired—it’s also a great preventative measure for anyone who wants to stay healthy during the fall. Here are some people who can benefit from IV therapy:
1. Parents
Let’s face it, parents are superheroes—but even superheroes need to recharge. Between managing school schedules, attending parent-teacher meetings, and juggling work, it’s easy to feel worn out. IV therapy can help parents stay healthy, energized, and ready to tackle the demands of family life during the busy fall season.
2. Students
Whether you’re in high school or college, the start of the school year can be overwhelming. Long hours of studying, late-night assignments, and extracurricular activities can leave you feeling drained. IV therapy can help boost your energy, improve focus, and keep your immune system strong so you can stay on top of your schoolwork.
3. Teachers
Teachers are exposed to a classroom full of students, each bringing their own set of germs to the table. IV therapy can help teachers strengthen their immune systems and keep their energy levels up, allowing them to stay healthy and avoid burnout during the school year.
4. Anyone Prone to Fall Illness
If you’re someone who seems to catch every cold that goes around, IV therapy can be a great way to strengthen your immune system and help you stay healthy throughout the fall season.
What to Expect from an IV Therapy Immune Health Session
If you’re new to IV therapy, you might be wondering what the experience is like. The good news is, it’s quick, easy, and completely safe when administered by trained professionals.
During an IV therapy session, you’ll relax in a comfortable chair while a professional sets up your IV drip. The treatment usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific cocktail of nutrients you’re receiving. You can use this time to catch up on emails, read a book, or just relax. Many people report feeling more energized and refreshed immediately after their session.
It’s also important to note that IV therapy is highly customizable. At Higher Health, for example, our practitioners will work with you to create a drip that meets your unique health needs—whether you’re looking to boost your immunity, increase your energy, or simply feel your best during the fall.
How IV Therapy for Immune Health Complements Other Healthy Fall Habits
IV therapy works even better when combined with other healthy habits. Here are a few ways to make the most of your treatment this fall:
1. Healthy Eating
While IV therapy provides an immediate boost, it’s important to maintain a nutrient-rich diet. Try incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables like pumpkins, squash, and leafy greens into your meals to nourish your body from the inside out.
2. Exercise and Movement
Staying active is crucial during the fall, especially as the weather cools down. IV therapy can aid in recovery after workouts, helping reduce soreness and promoting faster healing so you can keep moving without fatigue.
3. Prioritize Sleep
A good night’s sleep is one of the most powerful ways to keep your immune system strong. The nutrients in IV therapy can also help improve sleep quality, especially if you’re feeling stressed or run down.
Final Thoughts
As we head into the busy back-to-school season, it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being. IV therapy offers a quick, effective way to boost your immune system, increase your energy, and stay hydrated—so you can stay ahead of seasonal illnesses and feel your best.
But you might be wondering: “Is IV therapy right for my specific needs this fall?”
The best way to find out is to book a free IV consultation with our certified naturopathic doctors at Higher Health. During this no-obligation consult, we’ll discuss your unique health goals, assess your current wellness status, and recommend a personalized IV therapy plan to help you thrive this season.
Whether you’re a parent looking to stay energized for your family, a student aiming to stay focused in class, a teacher needing an immunity boost in the classroom, or just someone looking to optimize your health this fall, we’re here to help.
Don’t wait until you’re feeling run down or fighting off a cold to take action. Proactive wellness is the key to a healthy, vibrant fall—and it starts with understanding how IV therapy can work for you.
Vitamin Therapy for Critical Illness: A study published in Intensive Care Medicine highlights the crucial role of vitamins like C and B-complex in boosting immune function, especially in individuals under stress or illness. The research suggests that vitamin C and thiamine (B1) supplementation can reduce oxidative stress and enhance recovery, showing promise in treating conditions involving high immune demand(
High-Dose Intravenous Vitamin C in Cancer Patients: This study highlights the immune-boosting potential of high-dose vitamin C, which can also be applied to general immune support. It demonstrates that vitamin C can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, two factors critical in maintaining a strong immune response during seasonal changes(
Vitamin Therapy in Critically Ill Patients: This research focuses on the use of vitamins such as vitamin C and B-complex in severely ill patients, showing their importance in energy production and immune support. It confirms the role of these vitamins in improving health outcomes, particularly in stressful or high-demand situations(
Combining Glutathione and Vitamin C: This study examines the synergistic effect of glutathione and vitamin C, both of which are often used in IV therapy for immune support. The research shows how these antioxidants work together to reduce oxidative stress and support immune function(
As a naturopathic doctor I believe having a healthy immune system is one of the most important factors when it comes to overall wellness.
It’s hard to improve your health and move it forward when you’re constantly run down, sick, or taking a long time to recover from the latest cold or flu.
I would say, before you can have more energy, better sleep, better skin, weight loss, better mood…all the things people want when they come to see me…
You really need to focus on having a healthy immune system.
Immune health is the foundation for living in vibrant health – or as I like to say, “HIGHER HEALTH”.
Since we are in the cold/flu season, proactive immune support should be a top priority, and I want to help you do just that with my top tips for a strong and healthy immune system.
Those of you who follow me, you know I am big believer in IV drip therapy for immune health. For this article, I want to share tips you can do at home.
I can almost guarantee there will be a few you didn’t realize were as important as they are.
The good news is you can easily add these to your life right away without making huge lifestyle changes.
Quick disclaimer. The info I am about to share is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not intended as a recommendation or endorsement of any specific tests, products, procedures, opinions or any other information.
Now that that is out of the way, let’s dive in!
#1
vitamin d
Between 70% and 97% of Canadians demonstrate vitamin D insufficiency.
Which is why I’m going to start with Vitamin D . – Having optimal Vitamin D levels are very important for maintaining a healthy immune system.
When our Vitamin D levels get too low, you can experience a decreased resistance to viruses, think cold and flu; meaning it’s easier to catch whatever is going around!
With typical viral infections, there are two phases… an inflammatory and an anti-inflammatory phase. The inflammatory phase fights and clears the infection. This inflammatory phase is a good thing.
That’s where Vitamin D comes in. Vitamin D helps to initiate the anti-inflammatory phase, where the healing begins.
If your Vitamin D is too low, it can become more difficult to move to the anti-inflammatory phase, and you can stay stuck in the inflammatory phase and symptoms persist.
Which means your colds will linger and it will take you longer to recover.
Vitamin D can also help fight inflammation…which we’re going to touch on a few times as it’s a huge factor for your immune health and overall wellness.
Anytime I run bloodwork, I will strongly recommend including Vitamin D – regardless of summer months, or even when someone is already taking it as a supplement.
Because, I’ve found many people to be unexpectedly low.
Living in the northern hemisphere, we are much less exposed to sun rays that help our bodies naturally produce Vitamin D.
When we are in the sun for those 2 glorious Canadian summer months, we are often wearing sunscreen, which does protect our skin from burns and accelerated aging, but also blocks the sun rays we need to convert to vitamin D.
When you cannot get your Vitamin D from the sun, here is how to make sure you are reaching your optimal levels.
The best way to get your vitamin D through supplemental form is in a healthy fat, which usually comes in drop or gel form.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient, meaning it absorbs better into fat.
Drops or gel forms are emulsified, meaning they are broken down into tiny little fat molecules, making it much easier to absorb the fat molecules that contain the D.
Always ensure taking your Vitamin D with a healthy fat to aid further in the absorption – such as avocado, olive oil, fish oil, eggs, nuts, etc.. for a longer list feel free to reach out.
#2
Now we’re going to briefly touch on oxidants. This is a huge subject and I’m going to focus on one very important piece for immune health.
Oxidants are everywhere – from walking down the street and breathing in car exhaust, eating certain foods, using house hold cleaning products, and even healthy activities like exercise, create oxidative stress. And guess what… viral infection causes massive oxidative stress on your body.
Too much oxidative stress can impair your immune health (and create further inflammation).
The answer is to give your body antioxidants, which you have probably heard about, but you might not have understood the role of antioxidants specific to immune health.
You want antioxidants in your system to neutralize oxidants BEFORE they can cause cellular damage and lead to inflammation.
Just follow a perfectly healthy diet and you’ll get all the Antioxidants you need, right?
Unfortunately in today’s world that is much easier said than done, so you need to consider supplementing.
My favourite antioxidant, is Glutathione – it’s arguably your body’s most powerful antioxidant which helps support healthy lungs, detoxification, liver function, and fight inflammation.
Glutathione is found naturally in your body and is actually produced by your liver and nerve cells. It is made from three amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine.
To help your natural glutathione production you need to up your antioxidant glutathione supportive foods.
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, kale, watercress and mustard greens.
Allium vegetables, including garlic, shallots and onions, also boost glutathione levels.
There are also Glutathione supplements that you can take.
They come on many forms and each one has its own benefit. Whether you take an oral, suppository, nebulized form, or by IV Therapy, make sure you are getting it from a reputable source.
#3
melatonin
MELATONIN IS YOUR IMMUNE Friend:
Melatonin has been known for helping people sleep as well as helping with anxiety support.
It is also key for immune health because of its powerful antioxidant benefits, particularly when fighting viral infections.
It is very good for lung health and reducing fibrosis or scarring – which is a negative consequence with significant viral infections that can affect breathing and oxygen status.
Here are 2 ways you can start increasing your melatonin levels.
Up your melatonin with light exposure first thing in the morning. Rain or shine!
You see, it’s actually your exposure to light in the morning that builds your storage of melatonin to then be released later at night.
It’s like you’re filling your gas tank in the morning so that you can drive your car later in the evening without issues.
You can also add a melatonin supplement to your nightly routines.
When choosing a melatonin supplement, I like liquid melatonin – because it absorbs right under your tongue (making a lower dose effective).
It’s very important to pay attention to dosing – everyone has their sweet spot… too much and you will feel groggy the next day, not enough and you’ll be wondering what you spent your money on!
If it is in your budget I would suggest finding out where your melatonin levels are at.
There are some advanced tests that look at melatonin levels, and one of my favorites is the DUTCH.
If it’s not in your budget, then we need to find out what dose is best for you. Depending on what we find out during the intake process, I will usually start with 1-3mg, and then build from there.
Some people respond best to a low dose, others to 5mg, and others to 10-20mg.
You can also get an extended-release melatonin, which means it slowly releases in your system so that you can “stay asleep” (or fall back to sleep easier if you are woken by external causes).
One last thing on melatonin. I want to Circle back to melatonin for sleep and anxiety.
Your general immunity can be impaired by anxiety and sleep deprivation, so it makes sense to ensure your melatonin levels are optimal and your sleep wake cycles are in rhythm.
Melatonin really helps with this.
As we get older our bodies produce less Melatonin, so it’s something to strongly consider supplementing with as you age.
#4
sugar
SUGAR AND Your Immune Health
I love my sweets and I wish there was another way to tell you this, but sugar does not help you have a healthy immune system in any way, shape, or form.
In my practice, high-sugar diets are probably the biggest driver of chronic inflammation which impacts immune health.
I’m going to share some of the why its bad for your health, and then some tips to help you move away from the cravings.
How does sugar drive inflammation:
By causing high blood sugar leading to a proinflammatory state.
By feeding proinflammatory gut bacteria which leads to leaky gut and decreases nutrient absorption.
By increasing fat production in the liver and creating inflammatory metabolites.
By raising insulin levels and decreasing the production of anti-inflammatory ketones.
By driving weight gain and obesity leading to to more inflammation.
Remember – Sugar calories are empty calories.
When you overeat (or overdrink) them, your body tries to get more in search of missing nutrients… but it never fills the void of missing nutrient.
The excess sugar gets stored as fat… and you contribute further to the endless inflammatory loop.
It is a very vicious cycle.
Do right away/start today: To get the sugar monkey off your back, focus on healthy fats and proteins first.
Plan your meals to ensure good fats and proteins are part of every meal! This can help reduce sugar cravings.
And make your first bite of food in each meal the protein/fat option, which will slow the release of blood sugar into your blood stream.
This helps to create a more balanced insulin/blood sugar response, keeping you satiated for longer and minimizing excess sugar/glucose consumption.
#5
protein image
UP YOUR PROTEIN
This is a good follow up to sugar, because not only will more protein help curb sugar cravings, it will also help your immune health.
Protein plays an important role in powering specific immune cells called T cells, which identify and attack viral invaders in your bloodstream causing infection.
A diet low in protein leaves you open to fatigue, weakness, and a low immune response.
Getting your protein from food is better than taking supplements and powders.
If you cannot get enough through food then look for a high-quality, bio available protein powder from a reputable company.
#6
Immune System water
More water can mean better immune health.
So many of us walk around highly caffeinated and under hydrated.
Just as your lawn needs water to grow, your car needs gas to run, your immune system needs proper hydration to function optimally.
When you’re not properly hydrated, eliminating toxins and waste materials become a difficult task and eventually will contribute to wearing down your immune system.
Not only that, not staying hydrated diminishes energy levels and immune function over time.
If you are drinking less than 2L of water per day, it’s really important to figure out strategies to improve your hydration for improved immune health.
You can set a timer to remind you to get stand up and take a drink of water very hour. Sounds silly? Not at all. It works!
There are some people who just don’t like the taste of plain water. I would recommend adding some healthy flavors to it.
I always have chlorophyll in my water. It gives it a minty taste and has some antioxidant properties to it.
What ever you need to add to get more hydration into your body…make sure it does not have any sugar!
#7
Immune System stress
Constant Stress Can Weaken Your Immune System.
Stress stress stress! There is no arguing, we live in stressful times.
I wish more emphasis on stress management was part of everyone’s health practice.
I’m talking about stress from work, family, and simple things like traffic, watching the news.. this is the type of stress that is constantly spiking your cortisol and stress metabolites (catecholamines).
Chronic stress eventually exhausts your cortisol release, which then drives up inflammation and will lead to a weakened immune system. *Note: cortisol is your natural anti-inflammatory hormone. When you exhaust your stores, you are less able to manage inflammation.
When you are going through stressful times… double down on anti-inflammatory support such as antioxidant foods, supplementation, make sure you are hydrated, avoid sugar, increase protein; and all the things we have covered so far.
When feeling stressed, or you knowing you’re about to enter a stressful situation, you want to shift from being in a…
Stress mode = Sympathetic fight flight mode.
To a rest mode = Parasympathetic mode.
The following simple exercise can help put you into a parasympathetic mode, calming your cortisol release, and lowering inflammatory processes.
Navy Seals are taught this to help them in stressful situations. It’s called BOX BREATHING and has been shown to lower stress and help you re-center.
It’s really simple!
Step 1: Breathe in through your nose counting to four slowly. Feel the air enter your lungs as you visualize trace one side of an imaginary box or a door frame.
Step 2: Hold your breath for 4 seconds. Try to avoid inhaling or exhaling for 4 seconds, as you visualize tracing the second side of the box or door frame.
Step 3: Slowly exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds, as you visualize tracing the 3rd side of the box or door frame.
Step 4: Hold your breath for 4 seconds as you visualize tracing the 4th side of the box or door frame.
***Repeat steps 1 to 4 until you feel your stress going down.
You can do this multiple times a day and just about anywhere. I often find myself doing this when in traffic!
#8 (bonus!)
I know, I said 7, but I cannot talk about immune health and leave out IV Drip Therapy.
Some of the benefits this IV Drip can give you:
Supports your immune system with high doses of targeted nutrients
Reduces inflammation which helps decrease tissue damage associated with infections
Provides your system with antimicrobial and antiviral help to your system stay strong
There you have 7+ 1 tips and hopefully took away at least 1 that you can start using today to help improve your immune health.
There is so much more to having a strong immune system, from GI health to hormones and more, and each person has their own unique needs.
If you want to discuss how we can help you reach your best health or help you with a specific condition, you can book a free discovery call.
